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In the Clear?

We’re all familiar with the famous party advice, “beer before liquor makes you sicker; liquor before beer, you’re in the clear.” However, many of us, to our dismay, have passed out sloppy and woken up hung over and remorseful the following afternoon despite following the widely quoted conjecture, begging us to wonder – is there any truth to it?

The logic behind the saying could be approached from several different angles. It stands to reason that because of liquor’s higher potency when compared to beer, the drinker should consume it earlier in the evening, in a more sober state of mind, while more capable of making reasonable, calculated decisions about their drinking, later winding down with a couple of beers. Others believe that the human body is biologically better suited to handle copious amounts of alcohol when beer is preceded by liquor. Others still believe that the saying stands to reason because drinking liquor first gives the liver more time to filter out the hard stuff as the evening progresses.

And how does wine fit into the mix? Drinkers unanimously agree that different types of alcohol inspire distinct drunk sensations, and for many, wine is the first grab when party time rolls around. Typically higher in potency than beer, often sweet, and extremely palatable, over consumption of wine often leads to sharp headaches and bad decisions.

But let’s be real – consuming too much alcohol in any order is dangerous and easily regrettable. Before an evening of anticipated heavy handed drinking, it’s smart to consume fatty, starchy foods to help absorb what your body might otherwise reject. Also, it should be noted that women generally cannot tolerate as much alcohol as men; men have a higher water content in their bodies and better metabolize alcohol, so ladies, don’t try to match your boyfriends shot for shot. Stay hydrated with water between drinks. Don’t take acetaminophen before drinking. And, summon your reason, make smart decisions, and have responsible fun…cheers!